The Metropolitan Police are preparing for one of their largest operations in recent memory as more than 100,000 protesters are expected in London on the same day as the FA Cup final at Wembley. Officers in central London will be granted extra powers, including stop and search without suspicion, to police a far-right march organised by Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, and a smaller pro-Palestine rally.
The far-right Unite the Kingdom (UTK) march last September drew over 150,000 people to Parliament Square. This year, the Met has 4,000 officers on duty, supported by armoured vehicles and drones, to keep the two gatherings separated. The situation is complicated by the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Chelsea, with police noting that football hooligans have previously supported Robinson.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described the rise of the far right as 'a fight for the soul of this country'. The march follows Reform UK's success in local elections. The Muslim Council of Britain has warned Muslims to avoid central London, citing risks of violence and hatred.
Police will seek prosecutions for incitement to hatred against speakers and organisers at both events. The pro-Palestine rally is expected to draw 15,000 to 40,000 people. Authorities believe prosecutors are now more likely to charge antisemitic chants, such as 'globalise the intifada', which have already led to charges against three individuals.
Speakers at the far-right rally include the mother of a woman killed by an asylum seeker and American conspiracy theorist Glenn Beck. Robinson, who was previously banned from the US due to criminal convictions, visited Washington in February and met lawmakers. Polling suggests Robinson is known by over 80% of Britons, with 17% holding a favourable view.
